SEPTEMBER GARDEN CHORES

September in the garden

September may be back-to-school time, but it’s not back to planting time — yet. All but the most tropical plants struggle when planted in the heat.

That’s not so bad, though, since it’s too hot for us to garden during the day, too. Plan your gardening for early morning and late afternoons. If that’s not enough to satisfy your garden cravings, use this time to plan for cooler planting weather next month.

•Thinking of making changes to your garden? Sign up for a 30-minute design consultation with a professional landscape designer at the Fall Home Garden Show, Sept. 13, 14 and 15 at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. Meet with one of the talented members of the Association of Professional Landscape Designers (APLD) by making a reservation at Brown Paper Ticket,
www.brownpapertickets.com/event/436791. Bring photos (printed), garden plans and whatever else you have to share with your designer. Each consultation includes one free show admission.

•Deciduous fruit trees (peach, plum, pear, apples, etc.) can be pruned now, even though they have leaves. “Summer pruning” is a little challenging only because it’s difficult to see branches through the leaves. But, it’s a good way to keep trees short so fruits are in reach. For more information, visit
www.davewilson.com.

•Continue to fertilize summer vegetables, citrus and avocado. Use organic fertilizers according to label directions.